A user gets to grips with technology at the launch of the 'Easy Ride SA' KZN Meter Taxi Alliance app in Durban on Thursday. Picture: Nqobile Nbonambi / INLSA A user gets to grips with technology at the launch of the 'Easy Ride SA' KZN Meter Taxi Alliance app in Durban on Thursday. Picture: Nqobile Nbonambi / INLSA
Alliance has launched its own mobile app.
Alliance chairman Sizwe Mvubu said on Thursday the app - Easy Ride SA - would revolutionalise the meter taxi industry.
“We've been using walkie talkies that make a lot of noise and annoy the clients," he said. "The app will enhance communication between the client and the service provider. "
The app - which will start working next week and will also have a map that will prevent drivers getting lost on unfamiliar routes - came about after a national taxi council conference hosted in Durban two weeks ago.
Mvubu said various developers had pitched ideas and they opted for Udobo Holdings' on-demand transport solution A2B.
“The app was designed for us and will be owned by meter taxi operators,” he said.
Developer Sibusiso Simelane said Easy Ride SA was designed for drivers and clients.
“The clients will use cash, debit cards and in-store accounts to pay the service provider," he said. "We intend to engage ticket outlets and offer our services as part of their package, to capitalise on events,” said Simelane.
He added that they would also allow for offline bookings for non-smartphones users and through a call-in option.
“The client will go into Easy Ride SA and make a reservation with a service provider of their choice. Should their service provider not be available close by, the app will link the client with any service provider nearby.”
Meter taxi operators who want to join up will have to first register with the alliance. They will then be given a reservation date for training. The alliance said the registration would include verifications of driving and operating licences, and professional driving permits by the eThekwini Transport Authority.
Mvubu said meter taxis would also have to go through roadworthy tests.
“A task team will be formed to inspect the vehicles regularly, because the intention is to grow the industry and not destroy it,” he said.
The alliance hopes to expand in the future by having a site that will host a call centre to handle reservations and technicians to provide assistance to clients and drivers.